Pep defends City celebrations after derby win

London, United Kingdom: Pep Guardiola has defended Manchester City's celebrations after the Premier League leaders beat fierce rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford, saying they were "definitely not" over the top.

The Football Association has given both clubs until Wednesday to reply to a request for observations following reports of a tunnel brawl sparked by City's celebrations after their 2-1 win on Sunday, which took them 11 points clear.

However, when asked if City behaved improperly, Guardiola, speaking in Manchester ahead of the club's visit to Swansea on Wednesday, told reporters: "No. Definitely not. We were happy.

"We won a derby against Manchester United, one of the best rivals we have. We celebrated. I think if United win a derby, they celebrate. But where? Inside the locker room. That's what we tried to do and we did.

United are understood to have taken exception to City's post-match jubilation and an altercation involving up to 20 players and staff in the crowded corridor leading to the dressing rooms is reported to have left City assistant coach Mikel Arteta with blood streaming down his face.

United manager Jose Mourinho and City goalkeeper Ederson are reported to have had a confrontation while it is claimed Mourinho had milk and water thrown at him from the away dressing room.

"After what happened, hopefully, it cannot happen again. What happened we will explain to the FA investigation. United will do the same."